first-pitch
UK[ˈfɜːst pɪtʃ]US[ˈfɜːrst pɪtʃ]
n
The initial pitch thrown by a pitcher to a batter in a baseball or softball game, especially at the start of an inning or a game.
n
The first opportunity or attempt to do something, especially in a business or promotional context.
Morpheme Breakdown
first
pitch
first
initial
pitch
throw
Etymology
The compound noun "first-pitch" is a modern formation specific to the lexicon of baseball, originating in the late 19th to early 20th century. It logically combines the ordinal concept of "first," from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "foremost," with "pitch," a versatile English word whose core sense of "to throw" derives from an uncertain Old English verb. The term's literal meaning is transparent: the foremost or initial throw in a sequence. This concrete sporting term has subsequently undergone semantic extension, applying metaphorically to business and ceremonial contexts to denote a symbolic inaugural action or promotional opportunity, thereby following a common pattern where sports terminology enriches general figurative language.
Analysis
Structure: first (initial) + pitch (throw)
- first: From Old English fyrst, first (foremost, earliest in time or order). Germanic origin. Functions as an adjective/ordinal number indicating priority.
- pitch: From Middle English picchen (to thrust, drive, set in order). Old English origin, possibly related to pician (to prick). Functions as a verb/noun meaning to throw or a throw.
Examples
The mayor was invited to throw out the ceremonial first-pitch at the opening game.
His nervousness was evident as he prepared for the crucial first-pitch of the inning.
This product launch is our company's first-pitch into the competitive Asian market.